Dachshunds are known for their long bodies, short legs, and lovable personalities. But if you’re a dachshund parent, you’ve probably wondered:
“Why does my dachshund cry or whine so much?”
Whether it’s the middle of the night, during car rides, or every time you leave the room — dachshunds are famously expressive. While a little whining is natural, excessive crying can be a sign of deeper emotional, behavioral, or health issues.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover:
- 10 scientifically backed reasons dachshunds cry and whine
- Expert strategies to stop this behavior permanently
- Puppy-specific solutions for nighttime whining
- Hidden health issues behind dachshund tears
- Pro tips from dog behaviorists for emotional training
By the end, you’ll know exactly why your dachshund is so vocal — and how to turn that whining into calm, happy silence.
🐾 Understanding Dachshund Emotions: Why They’re So Sensitive
Dachshunds are not just small dogs — they’re emotionally complex companions bred for loyalty and connection. Their strong attachment to their humans makes them highly affectionate… but also highly prone to anxiety and attention-seeking behavior.
They express their emotions through sound — barking, whining, crying, or howling. These sounds are their language. So when your dachshund “cries,” it’s their way of saying something’s not right — either physically or emotionally.
Let’s dive into the top reasons why dachshunds cry excessively — and how to fix each one.
🧠 1. Separation Anxiety — The #1 Reason Dachshunds Cry
Dachshunds are a velcro breed — they stick to their owners like glue. That’s why separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral issues.
When left alone, they panic. Their world revolves around you, and without you, they feel unsafe. This leads to whining, crying, destructive chewing, and door scratching.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Start Desensitization Training
Leave for short periods, gradually increasing time away. Reward calm behavior when you return. - Use a Comfort Item
Leave a worn shirt or blanket that smells like you in their bed. - Interactive Toys & Puzzles
Keep their minds busy when you’re gone — treat-dispensing toys work wonders. - Crate Conditioning
Make the crate a “safe space,” not a punishment zone. Use calming music or white noise nearby. - Try Calming Products
Dog pheromone diffusers or calming chews with L-theanine can reduce anxiety.
Pro Tip: Avoid big “goodbyes” and “hellos.” Calm departures teach your dachshund that alone-time isn’t a big deal.
🚨 2. Attention-Seeking Behavior
Sometimes, your dachshund’s crying isn’t emotional distress — it’s manipulation.
They’ve learned that whining = attention.
If you respond every time with cuddles or treats, you’re reinforcing the behavior.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Ignore, Don’t Reward: Only give attention when they’re calm.
- Reward Silence: When they stop whining, immediately offer praise or a treat.
- Scheduled Playtime: Consistent attention during set times prevents random outbursts.
- Mental Stimulation: Teach new tricks, scent games, or “find it” challenges.
Expert Insight: Dachshunds are extremely intelligent — boredom is often the real cause of their drama.
🌙 3. Nighttime Whining — Especially in Puppies
Puppies often cry at night because they’re lonely, confused, or scared.
They’re used to sleeping with their littermates and now feel isolated.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Crate Beside Your Bed: Start close, then slowly move it farther as they get comfortable.
- Night Routine: Fixed feeding, potty, and bedtime schedule builds predictability.
- No Late-Night Water or Play: Reduces bathroom breaks and energy bursts.
- White Noise Machine: Helps mask unfamiliar sounds that cause anxiety.
🐕🦺 Don’t give in to crying by letting them out for cuddles — that teaches whining = attention.
💧 4. Physical Needs — Hunger, Thirst, or Potty Time
Sometimes the solution is simple: your dachshund might be crying because they need something basic.
🩹 What To Check
- Is their water bowl empty?
- Did they eat too early and need a snack?
- Have they been outside recently?
Dachshunds have small bladders — frequent potty breaks are essential, especially for puppies.
If all their needs are met and they’re still whining, it’s likely emotional or behavioral.
🧊 5. They’re Cold — Dachshunds Get Chilly Fast
With their short legs and thin coats, dachshunds lose heat faster than most breeds.
They’re low to the ground, so even cool floors can make them shiver and whine.
🩹 Solutions
- Invest in warm sweaters or coats during winter walks.
- Use a heated or orthopedic bed for joint comfort.
- Keep their sleeping area away from drafts or air vents.
- Add blankets or fleece throws in their crate.
Pro Tip: Shivering, tucked tails, and whining at night can all be signs your dachshund is cold.
💔 6. Jealousy or Possessiveness
Dachshunds are loyal to a fault. When you give attention to another pet, baby, or partner — they might cry out of jealousy.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Balanced Attention: Spend solo time daily with your dachshund.
- Gradual Introductions: When introducing new pets, do it slowly and positively.
- Ignore Jealous Whining: Reinforce calm, quiet behavior around others.
- Reward Sharing: Give treats when they behave well near the person or pet they’re jealous of.
Jealous whining often stems from insecurity. Build confidence through structured training and play.
⚡ 7. Overexcitement
Some dachshunds whine when they’re too happy.
Hearing you grab the leash, seeing visitors, or even hearing the word “walk” can send them into a frenzy.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Desensitize Triggers: Say “walk” randomly without following through until it loses meaning.
- Calm Exits: Wait for them to sit quietly before opening the door or giving a toy.
- Practice Patience: Reward self-control — not excitement.
A calm dachshund = a confident dachshund.
🧬 8. Health Issues or Hidden Pain
Persistent crying can also be a medical red flag.
Dachshunds are prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), which causes severe back pain and neurological symptoms.
Other possible causes:
- Ear infections
- Dental pain
- Arthritis
- Digestive discomfort
- Allergies causing itchiness
🩹 What To Do
If crying seems sudden or intense:
- Check for Limping or Yelping on Touch.
- Look for Loss of Appetite or Energy.
- Visit a Vet Immediately if symptoms persist more than 24 hours.
Never assume it’s “just emotional.” Dachshunds hide pain well until it becomes unbearable.
🧩 9. Lack of Routine or Structure
Dachshunds thrive on consistency.
Without a predictable routine, they can become confused, anxious, and vocal.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Fixed Feeding Times
- Scheduled Walks
- Set Sleep & Play Hours
Routine reduces uncertainty — and uncertainty is what triggers anxiety-driven crying.
🕹️ 10. Poor Socialization
When dachshunds aren’t exposed to various sounds, people, and environments early, they can develop fear-based whining later in life.
🩹 How to Fix It
- Controlled Exposure: Introduce new things gradually with treats and praise.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward bravery in new situations.
- Enroll in Puppy Socialization Classes: Safe way to meet other dogs and people.
🌅 How to Stop Dachshund Puppies From Whining at Night (Step-by-Step)
Puppy whining is a survival instinct — they used to rely on their mother’s warmth and littermates’ presence.
Follow these steps to transition your puppy smoothly:
- Set a Pre-Bed Routine: Play + potty + water + crate = sleep.
- No Late Meals: Prevents overnight accidents.
- Comfort Items: A stuffed toy or heartbeat plush mimics mom’s warmth.
- Crate Training: Positive association with bedtime.
- Consistency: Never break the rule of “crying doesn’t earn freedom.”
Within 2–3 weeks of steady structure, most dachshund puppies sleep peacefully through the night.
💡 Advanced Tips to Stop Whining for Good
Here’s where most dog parents fail — they only treat the symptom, not the root cause.
✅ Combine Mental + Physical Workouts
Tired dogs don’t whine.
- Morning walk
- Evening fetch
- Daily obedience mini-sessions
✅ Use Commands for Quietness
Train the “Quiet” cue using clicker training and rewards.
✅ Calming Environment
Soft background music, dim lighting, and consistent sleep cues help reduce stress.
✅ Emotional Intelligence Training
Learn to read your dachshund’s body language — whining often starts as subtle tension before it escalates.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Scolding or yelling — increases anxiety
❌ Inconsistent discipline — confuses your dog
❌ Over-cuddling during whining — reinforces the behavior
❌ Ignoring health symptoms — delays needed vet care
❤️ Final Thoughts: A Calm Dachshund is a Happy Dachshund
Whining and crying are normal ways for dachshunds to communicate — but excessive crying is a cry for help.
Whether it’s anxiety, jealousy, boredom, or health issues, your dachshund isn’t trying to annoy you — they’re trying to tell you something.
By combining structure, emotional training, patience, and consistency, you can help your dachshund become calm, confident, and content.
Remember: understanding your dachshund’s emotions is the first step to earning their lifelong trust. 🐾